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How Loud Are Blue Switch Keyboards? The Decibel Truth

By: Robert Llarves | Date Posted: November 20, 2022

How Loud Are Blue Switch Keyboards? The Decibel Truth

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, there are a few different switch types that you can choose from. One of the most popular switch types is the blue switch. Blue switches are known for their clicky sound, which some people love and others find annoying. But how loud are blue switch keyboards actually?

It is important to know how loud a keyboard is before you buy it, especially if you are going to be using it in a shared space. Also, if you are someone who is sensitive to noise, you might want to avoid blue-switch keyboards altogether.

So, how loud are blue switch keyboards?

Answer: Generally speaking, blue switch keyboards are quite loud. The clicky sound can be quite jarring, and it can be hard to ignore if you are trying to focus on something else. If you are looking for a quiet keyboard, a blue switch keyboard is probably not the best option.

However, some people do enjoy the sound of the clicks, so it is ultimately up to you whether or not you want to purchase a blue switch keyboard.

Here is a video of a blue switch keyboard in action, so you can decide for yourself if the sound is something that you can tolerate:

As you can see, blue switch keyboards can be quite loud. If you are looking for a loud keyboard, a blue switch keyboard is a good option.


Benefits of Loud Switches

Mechanical Keyboard with Blue Switch

Can Easily Hear When You Have Pressed a Key

Whether you’re working in a noisy office or trying to get some work done at home with the kids running around, it can be tough to concentrate. That’s where loud switches come in.

With a loud switch, you can easily hear when you’ve pressed a key, which helps to minimize distractions and boost productivity.

What’s more, loud switches are also great for accessibility. If you have a disability that makes it difficult to press a standard switch, a loud switch can make it much easier to use your computer or another device.

So, if you’re looking for a way to improve your focus and increase your productivity, consider investing in a set of loud switches. They just might be the answer you’ve been looking for.

Helps you Stay Focused and Alert

As anyone who has ever been to a rock concert knows, loud noise can have a powerful effect on the human body. In addition to causing physical pain, loud noise can also lead to feelings of agitation and anxiety. However, it turns out that loud noise can also have some benefits.

For instance, research has shown that loud switches can help people stay focused and alert. In one study, participants were asked to complete a simple task while either wearing earplugs or listening to loud music.

The results showed that those who were exposed to loud music made fewer mistakes and were more likely to finish the task on time. While the mechanism behind this effect is not fully understood, it seems clear that loud noise can sometimes be beneficial.

This applies to blue switch keyboards as well, which can help you stay focused and alert while you work or play games.

Can Help Mask other Noises

If you live in a noisy environment or work in an open office, it can be tough to concentrate. But if you have a set of loud switches, you can use them to mask some of the other noise around you.

This can help you get more work done during the day since you won’t be distracted by other people’s conversations or outside noises.

Some People Find the Sound of the Clicks to be Satisfying

The ever-present click of loud switches can be a source of annoyance for some, but for others, it provides a strange sense of satisfaction.

In a world where so many things are out of our control, the simple act of pressing a button and hearing a loud click can be strangely empowering. It’s a reminder that we can still exert some level of control over our environment, even if it’s just the sound of a switch.

Additionally, the sound of a switch can provide a welcome sense of punctuation in an otherwise silent room. In a busy office or open-plan living space, the sound of a switch can help to break up the monotony of constant background noise. As such, there is something to be said for the humble click of a loud switch.

It May Help You Type Faster

While there is no conclusive evidence to support this claim, some people believe that loud switches can help you type faster.

The theory is that the sound of the switch helps to mask the sound of your fingers hitting the keys, which makes it easier to type quickly. As the sound of the switch may help to improve your focus and concentration, it would be easier to achieve higher speeds.

While there is no definitive proof that loud switches make you type faster, it’s certainly an interesting theory. And if it turns out to be true, then blue switch keyboards may give you a leg up on the competition.


Drawbacks of Loud Switches

While there are certainly some benefits to using loud mechanical switches, there are also several drawbacks to consider. Here are some of the most notable disadvantages of using a keyboard with loud switches:

Maybe Distracting to Others

One of the most obvious drawbacks of using a keyboard with loud switches is that it can be distracting to others in the same room. Whether you’re typing up a report, chatting with friends online, or playing a video game, the loud clicking sound of the switches can be quite noticeable to anyone nearby. This can be especially problematic if you work in an open office environment, share a workspace with others, or have roommates or family members who are sensitive to noise.

May Not be Suitable for Quiet Environments

If you frequently use your computer in a library, coffee shop, or other quiet environments, a keyboard with loud switches may not be the best choice. The clicking sound of the switches can be quite disruptive to others who are trying to concentrate or relax in a quiet space. In this case, it’s usually better to opt for a keyboard with quieter switches or consider using a rubber dome or scissor-switch keyboard instead.

May Cause Fatigue or Strain on Fingers and Hands

Another potential drawback of using a keyboard with loud switches is that it can cause fatigue or strain on your fingers and hands. The tactile feedback and audible click of the switches can be satisfying to some typists, but for others, it can be tiring or even painful over long periods of use. This is especially true if you type at a high speed or use your keyboard for extended periods of time.


Are Blue Switches the Only Loud Option?

Blue Switch

No, there are other types of switches that are just as loud, if not louder. For example, the red switch is known for its high level of noise.

However, blue switches are generally considered to be the loudest type of switch. This is because they produce a higher pitch sound when they’re activated. But red switches are a close second, and they’re also known for their satisfying click. So, if you’re looking for a loud switch, either blue or red will do the trick.

Brown Switches

Brown switches are a type of tactile switch that provides a tactile bump without an audible click. They’re often described as a middle ground between blue switches and red switches, offering tactile feedback that’s more subtle than blue switches but still noticeable. Brown switches are generally quieter than blue switches, but they still provide some of the same benefits, such as improved accuracy and typing speed.

Green Switches

Green switches are a type of clicky switch that is very similar to blue switches, but they require slightly more force to actuate. This means that they’re a bit louder and more tactile than blue switches, but they may also be more fatiguing to use over long periods of time. Green switches are a good option for typists who want more pronounced tactile feedback than blue switches provide.

White Switches

White switches are a type of tactile switch that provides a tactile bump similar to brown switches, but they also have an audible click similar to blue switches. However, the click on white switches is often described as quieter and more subtle than the click on blue switches. White switches are a good option for typists who want some audible feedback but don’t want to be as disruptive to others as blue switches can be.

Clear Switches

Clear switches are a type of tactile switch that is very similar to brown switches, but they require more force to actuate. This means that they’re a bit more tactile and satisfying to use than brown switches, but they’re also quieter and less fatiguing to use over long periods of time. Clear switches are a good option for typists who want more pronounced tactile feedback than brown switches provide, but don’t want the loud clicking sound of blue switches.


Factors that Affect Keyboard Sound

The sound of a mechanical keyboard is influenced by several factors, including the keycap material and design, keyboard case material and design, and typing technique.

Keycap Material and Design

The material and design of the keycaps can have a significant impact on the sound of a mechanical keyboard. Keycaps made from thick ABS plastic or PBT plastic are generally quieter than thinner keycaps made from cheaper materials. Additionally, keycaps with a more textured surface can help reduce the sound of the switch bottoming out.

Keyboard Case Material and Design

The material and design of the keyboard case can also affect the sound of the switches. A keyboard case made from a thick, heavy material like aluminum can help dampen the sound of the switches, while a case made from a lighter, more resonant material like plastic can make the sound louder and more echoey. Additionally, a case with a more closed design can help contain the sound of the switches, while an open design can allow the sound to escape more easily.

Typing Technique

Finally, your own typing technique can have a big impact on the sound of a mechanical keyboard. Typing with a light touch can help reduce the sound of the switches bottoming out, while typing with a heavy hand can make the sound louder and more pronounced. Additionally, typing at a slower pace can help reduce the overall volume of the keyboard, while typing quickly can make the sound more noticeable.


What’s the Bottom Line?

Blue Switch Keyboard

Loud switches have their pros and cons, but overall, they’re a great option for those who want to improve their focus and productivity.

If you live in a noisy environment or work in an open office, loud switches can help you mask other noise and get more done.

Additionally, some people find the sound of the clicks to be strangely satisfying. So if you’re looking for a way to make your keyboard louder, consider investing in a set of blue or red switches.

I suggest watching also the video I’ve attached to this post. The video is a sound comparison of blue, red, and brown switch keyboards.

Henz Llarves

Robert Llarves

Robert Llarves is a PC hardware enthusiast, gamer, and writer. He has been building his own rigs for a long time and is passionate about helping others do the same. Robert is also an avid competitive gamer, having played games such as Dota 2 and Far Cry.

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